Women's Health
MSDC has long advocated for women's health protections, the rights of women physicians, and affordable care for women's issues. MSDC works closes with ACOG, AAFP, AAP, and other specialty organizations to craft local legislation that allows DC to be the best place to practice women's and maternal medicine.
In the face of a maternal mortality crisis in the District, engagement in these issues is more important than ever. Learn more about how MSDC is working to protect the health of women, mothers, and babies in all wards in the city.
MSDC Statements and Testimony on Women's Health Issues
25th Council information coming soon!
Physician Community Speaks Loudly on Scope Bill
The DC physician community spoke up and spoke loudly on December 7, arguing against expanding scope of practice in DC.
The cause was a hearing in the Committee on Health for B25-545, the HORA Revisions Act. The bill would update the law governing medical licensing and practice in the District. Notably, the bill would dramatically expand the scope of practice for numerous allied health providers as well as change the Board of Medicine to include physician assistants, a podiatrist, a chiropractor, and an acupuncturist.
MSDC President Dr. Ashesh Patel testified early in the hearing on behalf of the Society. In his testimony, he noted the large number of physicians and organizations speaking or submitting testimony concerned with the legislation. He shared that MSDC's testimony would briefly touch on these topics, and leave the details to others, while highlighting larger concerning themes. Other members, like Dr. John Dombrowski, spoke to specific concerns on scope expansion. Even the American Medical Association testified at the hearing to give a national perspective.
Sample of Legislation MSDC Followed in Women's Health and Maternal Health
(See the whole list of bills here)
What does the bill do? Extends postpartum inpatient and outpatient benefits to at least one year after childbirth
MSDC position: We support this legislation and the extension of insurance benefits to mothers and babies to help maternal health in the District
Current status: SUCCESS. The bill passed the Council and was signed into law by the Mayor on August 14, 2020.
What does the bill do? The bill prohibits the District government from interfering with patients' reproductive health decisions and prohibits employers from punishing physicians who perform abortions or sterilizations outside of their employment.
MSDC position: We support this legislation as it allows physicians freedom of practice.
Current status: SUCCESS. The bill passed the Committee on Government Operations in January. MSDC submitted testimony at the December hearing, and MSDC member Sara Imershein testified at the hearing. The Council passed the bill and the Mayor signed it into law on March 23, 2020.
What does the bill do? The bill extends coverage for maternal health issues and fertility preservation, creates a Maternal Health Center in the District, and mandates two hours of cultural competence CME for health care providers.
MSDC position: We oppose the bill without changes due to inclusion of mandatory CME and some of the definitions in the bill being medically questionable.
Current status: The bill had a hearing in the Committee on Health in December, with MSDC member Dr. Sara Imershein testifying for MSDC and ACOG.